New research shows that the way alcohol affects our bodies in relation to cardiovascular disease (CVD) is more complicated than we thought.
In this study, scientists looked at how alcohol consumption affects certain substances called metabolites that circulate in our bodies.
Let's find out what they've discovered.
A new discovery
Scientists found that certain substances in the body, called metabolites, are linked to the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) when people drink alcohol moderately.
They identified seven metabolites that increase the risk of CVD and three metabolites that decrease the risk.
Further research is needed to better understand these metabolites and how they can help prevent and treat alcohol-related CVD.
The study looked at blood samples from 2,428 people over 20 years, and 636 of them developed CVD.
In women, the connection between alcohol and metabolites was stronger compared to men.
Different types of alcohol had different effects, with beer having a slightly weaker connection than wine and liquor.
To confirm these findings and explore the relationship between alcohol, metabolites, and cardiovascular risk, larger studies with more diverse participants are necessary.
Previously, we talked about peppermint tea.
